Protection types according to the IP code (Ingress Protection)
The IP Code (Ingress Protection) is an internationally recognized standard for classifying the level of protection of electrical devices against the ingress of foreign objects and moisture. The IP code consists of the letters "IP" followed by two numbers, where each number has a specific meaning that indicates the level of protection against certain environmental influences. The IP protection types are in the standard DIN EN 60529 (VDE 0470-1):2014-09 Protection types through housing (IP code) (IEC 60529:1989 + A1:1999 + A2:2013); German version EN 60529:1991 + A1:2000 + A2:2013, formerly VDE 0470-1 regulated.
IP - Ingress Protection
The letter "IP" stands for "Ingress Protection" or "International Protection", which means "protection type" or "international protection class" in German. This designation indicates that it is a standardized classification of protection level to evaluate the ingress of foreign objects such as dust, dirt and moisture into electrical equipment.
The first digit - protection against solids
The first number in the IP code refers to the degree of protection against the ingress of solids such as dust, dirt and other particles. It ranges from 0 to 6 and has the following meanings:
- 0: No specific protection against solids.
- 1: Protection against solid foreign bodies with a diameter of 50 mm or more.
- 2: Protection against solid foreign bodies with a diameter of 12.5 mm or more.
- 3: Protection against solid foreign bodies with a diameter of 2.5 mm or more.
- 4: Protection against solid foreign bodies with a diameter of 1 mm or more.
- 5: Complete protection against dust deposits. The ingress of dust is not completely prevented, but in an amount that does not affect the operation of the device.
- 6: Dustproof. No dust ingress under normal operating conditions.
The second digit - protection against moisture
The second digit in the IP code indicates the degree of protection against moisture and ranges from 0 to 9K. Here is the meaning of each digit:
- 0: No specific protection against moisture.
- 1: Protection against dripping water when the housing is tilted from all directions.
- 2: Protection against dripping water when the housing is tilted from a certain direction.
- 3: Protection against water spray from an angle of up to 60 degrees.
- 4: Protection against splash water from all directions.
- 5: Protection against water jets from all directions.
- 6: Protection against strong jets of water and waves.
- 7: Protection against temporary immersion in water up to a depth of 1 meter for a maximum of 30 minutes.
- 8: Protection against continuous immersion in water under certain conditions.
- 9K: High pressure/steam jet cleaning.
Additional letters for special conditions
In addition to the numbers, letters can also be added to the IP code to indicate special conditions or further protection features. An example of this is the letter "H" for increased safety or "M" for use under special mechanical loads.
Overall, the IP Code provides a clear and standardized method for assessing the level of protection of electrical equipment against the ingress of solids and moisture. By specifying precise numbers and, where appropriate, letters, consumers and industry alike can select the appropriate devices for specific environmental conditions, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of electrical devices.
The following overview from the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) presents the protection types well:
Source: IEC https://www.iec.ch/ip-ratings
